EXPLORING STUDENTS' PERCEPTION TOWARDS BLENDED LEARNING IN ENGLISH SPEAKING CLASSROOM

Abstract

Speaking ability is a form of communication that can be used by an individual to convey ideas and thoughts to the listeners. Online learning has changed speaking teaching practice from face to face into remote teaching, and blended learning is a combination of online-based learning and classroom learning. This learning can be applied to teach speaking skills. Therefore, it is important to understand how speaking class was like in a blended learning setting. In this case, the researcher is interested in conducting research about students' perception towards the implementation of blended learning in speaking class.The study was conducted qualitatively on three students at the University of Islam Malang who had experienced blended learning. The research data was collected using semi-structured interviews and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis model by Creswell (2018) which includes data reduction, organization, coding, display and interpretation.The findings indicate that most students have a positive opinion of blended learning, which they believe increases student interest in learning, simplifies learning through the use of technology, opens up new learning opportunities, and gives them flexibility in terms of time, place, and resources so they can design lesson plans that suit their needs, objectives, and learning preferences. However, learning to speak might be hindered by low internet connections and other distractions. Students also mentioned a number of advantages, including increased self-assurance, improved speech skills, flexible application, and a promotion of student autonomy. The ease of learning, adaptability, and usability of the current approach should be maintained; however, it could be enhanced with regard to internet connectivity, platform comfort, and user training to familiarize users with the technology. The study suggest that blended learning for EFL learners should be optimized in terms of usability and features, offering flexibility and online learning materials. Speaking instructors should balance online and offline learning to enhance confidence? Future research should consider participants' learning features, such as anxiety, confidence, achievement, and speaking skills, to understand how these affect perception towards blended learning.  Keywords: students' perception, speaking skill, blended learning